You can donate an automobile

Just call (877) 537-4227 to speak to a JFS of the Desert vehicle donation representative or email us at your convenience donations@charitableautoresources.com.

Our representative will schedule a pick up that's convenient for you, and provide you with confirmation of your donation.

If the gross proceeds from the sale of your donated vehicle are $500 or more and, if you provide your social security number to our representative at the time of your donation, you will also receive an IRS tax form 1098-C stating the sale price of the vehicle. This amount is what you actually claim on an itemized tax return.

Be aware that, according to a tax law that went into effect on Jan. 1, 2005, if the claimed value of a donated vehicle exceeds $500, the taxpayer is limited to the gross proceeds of the sale.

Frequently asked questions

General

What are the benefits of donating my car to Jewish Family Service of the Desert?
JFS of the Desert benefits by receiving a cash donation to fund new and existing programs and increase community awareness through local events.

You benefit by being able to reduce taxable income when taxes are itemized. Plus you avoid the costs associated with selling your car. No need to pay for advertising, no loss of privacy and possible security risk, and no need to pay for vehicle registration, insurance or repairs to keep the car in running condition while you wait for a buyer.

Does my car have to be running to donate it?
In some cases we can take your car, whether it is running or not. However, it must have an engine and be tow-able. Contact a representative at 877/537-4227 to find out whether your vehicle qualifies for pick-up.

Do you only accept cars for donation?
Many types of motor vehicles are accepted, including boats, motorcycles, trucks and cars. If you are uncertain as to whether or not a vehicle is eligible, please contact the vehicle donation program toll free at (877) 537-4227.

How long will it take to pick up my vehicle?
We make donating your car as simple and convenient as possible. In some cases, vehicles can be picked up the same day. Call our representatives at 877/537-4227.

Do I have to be with the vehicle at the time it is picked up?
No. Special arrangements can be made by calling our representative.

What paperwork do I need?
The only paperwork needed is a signed, clear title (pink slip California only). Have your title with you when you call about your donation. [Please note: a clear title indicates the automobile’s title is in the name of the donor without a lien].

Do I need a smog certificate in order to donate a car?
For states that require smog certificates or safety inspections, you may donate your vehicle without these documents.

What if I receive legal notices?
In the rare event that you receive any notification of a lien sale, DMV actions or other activity related to your donated vehicle, please contact us at (877) 537-4227 immediately for assistance.

Tax Questions

How does the new law affect my tax deduction?
Donors are no longer responsible for determining the deductible value of a donation. Instead, they will receive IRS Form 1098-C—Contributions of Motor Vehicles, Boats, and Airplanes—if the proceeds from the sale exceed $500. That form will state the amount of the gross proceeds from the sale of a donated vehicle. The amount listed on IRS Form 1098-C will be the gross proceeds of the deductible donation.

Will I get a tax receipt for my donation?
Yes, our driver will issue a receipt at the time of pick up. This is not your final tax receipt unless the sale of your vehicle does not exceed $500. This initial acknowledgement will indicate your name as well as the year, make, model and condition of the car you are donating. It will be your only receipt if your vehicle sells for less than $500.

An IRS Form 1098-C, as described above, will be mailed to you within 30 days of the sale; it will state the amount of gross proceeds received from your car, provided your vehicle sold for more than $500 and you have submitted your social security number. This will be your tax receipt for the charitable contribution.

How is the value determined on the vehicle donated?
The value is determined by the gross proceeds raised from the sale of the donated vehicle. You no longer have the burden of determining the value yourself.

Does the new law affect Jewish Family Service of the Desert?
Yes. JFS of the Desert has additional paperwork in reporting gross proceeds raised from the sale of a vehicle to the donor and IRS. The process of obtaining the cash donation from the vehicle remains the same.

What can I claim as a deduction?
According to the tax law effective Jan. 1, 2005, if the claimed value of the donated vehicle exceeds $500, the taxpayer is limited to the gross proceeds of the sale.

What if my car is valued over $5,000?
Effective Jan. 1, 2005, you are no longer required to have vehicles appraised. The value you may claim will be the amount of gross proceeds as reported on Form 1098-C.

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